Instant analysis of Chargers selecting EDGE Uchenna Nwosu

Instant analysis of Chargers selecting EDGE Uchenna Nwosu

The Chargers continued to add ferocious pass rushers to a defense that finished as the No. 3 scoring unit in football with the addition of former USC EDGE Uchenna Nwosu at pick No. 48 overall in the 2018 NFL draft.

Nwosu will pair with defensive end Joey Bosa, who surpassed former 49ers and Raiders outside linebacker Aldon Smith for the most sacks totaled in their first 20 games at the position (19.0). For his efforts, Bosa saw his gloves and jersey put on display in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. And the Chargers had Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson announcing the pick of Nwosu.

NFL Media analyst Lance Zierlein graded Nwosu out as a Rounds 3-4 prospect citing his lack of strength and propensity to get stuck on blocks at 6-foot-2 and 251 pounds. Nwosu posted 169 total tackles (94 solo), 20.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, one interception and 19 passes defensed.

Los Angeles rescinded the original tender restricted free agent offer to EDGE Chris McCain, making the addition of Nwosu a natural move for defensive coordinator Gus Bradley. McCain and Nwosu play similar style games but there is little question that the former Trojans product has far more upside at each players’ stage of their respective football careers.

After selecting former Florida State safety Derwin James in Round 1, general manager Tom Telesco continue to stack the deck on defense for the 2018 season.